Cost Sharing Requirements. The Feasibility Study is 100% federally funded up to $100,000. Costs over $100,000 are shared equally with the non-federal sponsor. Up to one-half of the non-federal share can be in the form of in-kind services. Costs for preparation of plans and specifications and construction are shared at 65 percent federal/35 percent non-federal. The non-federal share of construction consists of provision of any necessary lands, easements, rights-of-way, relocations and disposal areas (LERRD), plus a cash contribution of 5% of the total project costs. In the event that the value of LERRD, plus 5% cash, does not equal at least 35% of the total project cost, the non-federal sponsor must contribute additional cash to equal 35%. If LERRD plus 5% exceeds 35%, the sponsor is responsible up to a maximum of 50% of the total project costs.

Project Process. The Corps conducts an initial appraisal early in the Feasibility Study to determine whether the project meets program criteria and provides a basis for determining scope and cost of an entire feasibility study. The solution must be economically feasible and environmentally acceptable. If an acceptable alternative is identified in the feasibility study, the Corps prepares plans and specifications, then manages construction of the project.

How to Request Assistance. Requests for assistance should be in the form of a letter describing the location and nature of the problem and requesting assistance under the program. The request should be submitted by a state or local government agency to Mr. John Kennelly, Chief, Planning Branch, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, 696 Virginia Road, Concord, MA 01742-2751.  For more information call Larry Oliver of the Project Planning Section at 978-318-8347.